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$45 per lesson
$160 package of 4 lessons
$25 pony rides
$25 farm visit/tour (groups up to 5)
$160 package of 4 lessons
$25 pony rides
$25 farm visit/tour (groups up to 5)
At Heron Creek Farm, our lesson Program is customized for each student. The first lesson begins with basic familiarization with the horse, equipment, and safety.
You will be matched to a horse with a suitable temperament and size for your ability and stature. You will not always have this same horse, as we find students learn well by being exposed to different challenges.
You will be riding from your first lesson. At Heron Creek Farm we strongly believe in a "holistic" approach to riding, so you will be exposed to a great deal during your first lessons.
Beginning in the barn, you will be shown how to safely groom and move around your horse and "tack up" (put the saddle and bridle on). This takes about 30 minutes. In the ring, you will mount your horse, do some stretching exercises and begin to familiarize yourself with the correct position, balance, and movement necessary for riding. Some riders who have ridden in a western saddle may find that more balance is required when learning to ride in an English saddle. You will learn how to communicate with your horse by using "aids" to ask your horse to walk forward, (forward transitions), stop and slow down (downward transitions), turn left and right, and when you are comfortable, learn to trot. This portion of the lesson varies greatly based on attention span and fitness of the rider, and usually builds as confidence increases and muscles get used to riding. The average is 15-20 minutes, building up to 30 minutes for private lessons. You will be working hard, and there is a lot to take in during the first 4-5 lessons, but soon it will all come together with practice and patience. You will learn how horses think, and know when your horse understands what you ask of him.
Back in the barn you will learn to take the saddle and bridle off, and groom your horse. Depending on the weather, this takes 15-30 minutes to cool a hot horse. This is the time to take care of your horse, and thank him for his efforts.
We ask that you do not give food rewards, because hand feeding teaches horses to be mouthy and leads to biting. Horses appreciate when you rub their necks, and you may find a tickle spot that your horse likes to have scratched.
You will be matched to a horse with a suitable temperament and size for your ability and stature. You will not always have this same horse, as we find students learn well by being exposed to different challenges.
You will be riding from your first lesson. At Heron Creek Farm we strongly believe in a "holistic" approach to riding, so you will be exposed to a great deal during your first lessons.
Beginning in the barn, you will be shown how to safely groom and move around your horse and "tack up" (put the saddle and bridle on). This takes about 30 minutes. In the ring, you will mount your horse, do some stretching exercises and begin to familiarize yourself with the correct position, balance, and movement necessary for riding. Some riders who have ridden in a western saddle may find that more balance is required when learning to ride in an English saddle. You will learn how to communicate with your horse by using "aids" to ask your horse to walk forward, (forward transitions), stop and slow down (downward transitions), turn left and right, and when you are comfortable, learn to trot. This portion of the lesson varies greatly based on attention span and fitness of the rider, and usually builds as confidence increases and muscles get used to riding. The average is 15-20 minutes, building up to 30 minutes for private lessons. You will be working hard, and there is a lot to take in during the first 4-5 lessons, but soon it will all come together with practice and patience. You will learn how horses think, and know when your horse understands what you ask of him.
Back in the barn you will learn to take the saddle and bridle off, and groom your horse. Depending on the weather, this takes 15-30 minutes to cool a hot horse. This is the time to take care of your horse, and thank him for his efforts.
We ask that you do not give food rewards, because hand feeding teaches horses to be mouthy and leads to biting. Horses appreciate when you rub their necks, and you may find a tickle spot that your horse likes to have scratched.
In subsequent lessons, you will learn to refine your aids, and build on the basic skills. Communication between horse and rider, and good horsemanship is what we strive for. Every student is encouraged with the help of the instructor, to set realistic goals. Whether cantering, trail riding, dressage, or jumping is something you would like to work toward, we will assist you in your journey to safely reach your dreams.
What To Expect Your First Lesson
3940 Dawley Road
Virginia Beach, VA 23457
hcf@heroncreekfarm.com
757-580-5300
Virginia Beach, VA 23457
hcf@heroncreekfarm.com
757-580-5300
Horse Riding Camps
Copyright (C) 2009 Heron Creek Farm
Equine Sports Massage
